Area weathering MoDOT cuts slightly better

Monday

Aug 5, 2013 at 6:30 PM

Ranking number seven among all 50 states, Missouri's transportation system is one of the largest in the nation. Even though it is quite impressive, the economy has had a toll on the state's transportation system.

Ranking number seven among all 50 states, Missouri's transportation system is one of the largest in the nation. Even though it is quite impressive, the economy has had a toll on the state's transportation system.

MoDOT has reduced the workforce throughout the state by 1,200. The lake area has not seen as much downsizing, but two buildings have been closed within the past year.

"MoDOT has downsized in this area by closing a building in Osage Beach and the Stover building in Morgan County," area engineer Bob Lynch said. He added that the staff from those buildings were shifted to other locations. The lake area's fleet has stayed the same.

"We are still offering the same services, we just may be coming from a different building," Lynch added.

The two lake area buildings were just two of 110 across the state that were closed. Some supervisors have also been shifted to a regular employee position helping MoDOT reduce their salary budget.

The state has a whole is focusing on maintenance projects and straying away from bigger expansion type projects.

Lynch said that the lake area's five year plan will focus on projects that maintain the system including replacing bridges, overlaying roads and resurfacing projects.

The Hurricane Deck Bridge in Camden County is a major project. "The last of its kind in this area," according to Lynch.

Two other bigger projects are in the works including the Route 5 project in Sunrise Beach, which will add a center turn lane and an extension of an outer road in Osage Beach. Both of these projects were initiated by each city and are being completed with monetary help from each city.

"If communities are willing to do bigger projects and partner with MoDOT, MoDOT will find a way to make that happen," Lynch said.

To learn more about Missouri's transportation system, visit www.missourionthemove.org.